Windy Chien, Fiber Artist and Woodworker

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On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Windy Chien, an artist whose Year of Knots project captured the imaginary of collectors and fans across the world last year. Windy creates beautiful works of art with knots; she’s also known for her macramé helix lights and carved wooden spoons. Windy’s path to life as an artist might be the epitome of what this podcast is all about. Windy moved from Hawaii to San Francisco to study film, ran the historic Aquarius Records store for 14 years, then joined Apple to help manage and grow the iTunes and App stores. On this episode, you’ll hear about Windy’s journey, the cycles of exploration and experimentation that have served her so well as she charts new career paths, and why knots called to her as an artist. Listen in to this episode of Making Ways for a bit of fearless reinvention with Windy Chien.

About Windy

Windy Chien makes art that activates space and crafts objects that elevate the daily rituals of life. She is best known for her 2016 project, The Year of Knots, in which she learned a new knot every day for a year. Her work ranges in size from a knot that can fit in the palm of a child’s hand to majestic, room-sized installations that are sought after by private collectors. Following long careers at Apple and as the owner of an independent record store, she launched her studio in 2015. Her work has been covered by Wired, the New York Times, Martha Stewart, and more.